Facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, addresses signs of aging by tightening underlying tissues, removing excess skin, and restoring volume for a refreshed, natural look. Ideal for those experiencing sagging jowls, deep creases, or loose skin due to aging, sun exposure, or weight changes, it focuses on harmony and vitality, often transforming self-confidence based on insights from thousands of patients over the years.
Key Benefits
- Rejuvenated facial structure with a more defined jawline and neck.
- Reduced appearance of wrinkles, folds, and sagging for a youthful glow.
- Enhanced overall facial balance and self-esteem in daily interactions.
What to Expect
Consultations involve a detailed assessment of facial anatomy, goals, and imaging for visualization. Surgery typically lasts 3-5 hours under general anesthesia, with incisions strategically placed for minimal visibility. Recovery allows return to light activities in 1-2 weeks, with full results emerging over 3-6 months as swelling resolves. Costs start around $12,000-$15,000, varying by technique or combinations.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience at Cary Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I've performed face lifts on thousands of patients, earning multiple "Voted Best Plastic Surgery" awards in the area. This procedure is profoundly rewarding for those battling visible aging signs, helping restore a vibrant, authentic appearance that aligns with their inner energy. Concerns like incision concealment, sensation preservation, and avoiding an "overdone" look are always front and center to foster trust and natural outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Hanna?
With over 30 years and thousands of facelifts performed, I've mastered techniques that deliver natural rejuvenation without the 'pulled' look, focusing on tissue repositioning and volume restoration. Patients often express joy at looking like a rested version of themselves.
As a multiple award-winner for Best Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I prioritize your unique aging patterns, sun damage, volume loss, or laxity for personalized plans that enhance harmony and longevity.
Actual Patient Benefits of a Facelift
From my experience, a face lift revives more than skin - it's about renewed vitality. Key benefits include:
- Tightened contours for a defined jawline and smoother neck.
- Diminished wrinkles and folds around mouth, eyes, and forehead.
- Restored volume to combat hollowness from aging or weight loss.
- Better skin texture and tone, often enhanced with adjuncts like lasers.
- Heightened self-confidence; many patients feel more engaged socially.
- Long-term satisfaction shines when maintaining skincare routines.
Visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website for complete information on Facelift Surgery.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates are healthy adults noticing facial aging, often in their 40s-60s but varying by lifestyle. Success is highest in those with:
- Moderate sagging, jowls, or neck laxity.
- Good skin elasticity and overall health; non-smokers preferred.
- Stable weight to sustain results.
- Realistic expectations for natural enhancement. If volume loss dominates, we may combine with fillers. Facelift surgery is not for those seeking minimal downtime. Non-surgical options suit milder cases.
Schedule a Consultation to find out if you're a candidate.
Facelift Surgery, Step-by-Step
Performed in our accredited facility under general anesthesia, the surgery lasts 3-5 hours. Steps include:
- Incision:
Hidden in hairline/behind ears.
- Tissue Adjustment:
Lift SMAS, reposition fat/muscles
- Skin Removal:
Excise excess, re-drape smoothly.
- Closure:
Fine sutures; drains if needed.
You're sent home the same day with bandages.
Recovery & Aftercare
It's important to understand that recovery is gradual. Most resume work in 2 weeks, full activities in 4-6 weeks. Aftercare protocols:
- Week 1: Rest, head elevation, manage swelling/bruising.
- Weeks 2-4: Light duties; avoid sun/strenuous moves.
- Month 1+: Exercise resume; results refine.
Tips that may aid in recovery:
Pre-op skincare, no smoking, hydrate. Long-term: Sunscreen, annual checks; results endure 10+ years with care.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, risks exist but are minimized through expertise. Common risks include bruising, swelling, sensation changes and asymmetry. More rare risks include hematoma or infection.
We discuss all risks and possible complications from facelift surgery during your consultation, reviewing your health history, and health habits to reduce risks. .
Benefits often outweigh risks for suitable candidates, but informed consent is key.
** Individual results vary
Cost & Financing
We will always provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Facelift surgery typically starts around $12,000 and includes anesthesia, facility time, and follow-ups. Combinations with other surgeries such as a neck lift and different techniques may affect the pricing.
We offer financing through CareCredit and accept major cards. During consultation, get a custom quote; insurance may cover if medically necessary.
Schedule a consultation and we'll provide you with a personalized quote for your facelift surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does face lift surgery take? About 3-5 hours at our practice, depending on technique and combinations.
- Will face lift leave visible scars? Scars are minimized and hidden in hairline/creases; fade over 6-12 months with treatments available.
- How many follow-ups needed? Typically 4-6 over first year, starting day after, all included.
- How long do results last? 10+ years, influenced by lifestyle; maintenance helps.
- Does it affect facial sensation? Temporary changes possible, but often resolve.